Salinas-area financial adviser pleads no contest to elder abuse

Sandee Palmer Larkin, 65, entered a plea of "no contest" Tuesday to one felony count of financial elder abuse, the Monterey County district attorney's office said. Larkin runs a business assisting people manage their money called Larkin Financial and Assistance Services.

While working for an elder (defined as anyone over 65), Larkin was responsible for making sure the victim's account was balanced and the bills were paid in a timely manner, prosecutors said. She was also allowed to write checks including her own salary. She increased her own pay for several months ultimately taking at least $5,000 that she had not earned by overpaying herself, prosecutors said.

"The family thought they had done everything right by hiring a 'professional' to make sure their loved one's bills were paid and nobody was stealing from her," said Deputy District Attorney David Rabow. "Unfortunately for them, Ms. Larkin did steal money from the elder victim. Consumers are advised that professional fiduciaries are licensed by the California Department of Consumer Affairs and their status can be verified at www.fiduciary.ca.gov. Larkin does not hold a current license according to the website."

Anyone who believes that they have been the victim of elder abuse should contact local law enforcement or Adult Protective Services at 831-883-7565.

Judge Larry E. Hayes is scheduled to decide Larkin's sentence at 8:45 a.m. Sept. 24. The sentence could range from felony probation up to four years in jail, prosecutors said.

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Salinas-area financial adviser pleads no contest to elder abuse

Sandee Palmer Larkin, 65, entered a plea of 'no contest' Tuesday to one felony count of financial elder abuse, the Monterey County district attorney's office said.